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5 Technology Initiatives that could Save the Planet

In today's digital age, the pace of technology is faster than ever before. Whilst technology can improve human's quality of life, it can also assist in reducing our carbon footprint, with smart solutions being introduced in an effort to help save the planet.

1. Smart Initiatives

Smart Initiatives, like Smart Cities, will have an extraordinary impact on the environment. Whilst the definition of what a smart city will look like is ever-changing due to the rapid pace of technology development, current plans like smart street lights, self-efficient buildings and flying taxis, drones and smart containers contributing to traffic reduction will contribute enormously to cleaner air and cities.

A UN report named, ‘Hot Cities: battle-ground for climate change’, attributed 70% of greenhouse-gas emissions to the world’s cities. It is indisputable that cities must adopt a smart initiative and implement IoT and intelligent technologies to help monitor and improve efficiency.

2. Renewable Energy

Smart initiatives have encouraged innovative thinking regarding the implementation of renewable energy. Smart city infrastructures will be supportive of renewable energy sources. One of the most exciting prospects is solar windows which will enable buildings to become self-sufficient, even producing more energy than they consume, in some cases.

The introduction of smart meters has assisted homes reduces their monthly spend of energy bills as well as reduce their carbon footprint. Research into some of the first smart meter customers showed a reduction in their energy consumption by 1.5-2%, but with the advice offered through smart meter providers, customers will be better informed on how to become more energy efficient.

3. Wildlife Drones

It didn’t take long for drones to take off, pardon the pun. Whilst they offer new opportunities to photographers and videographers, drones can also contribute significantly to conservation efforts. With the pace of habitat loss accelerating every day, the need to understand the impact of climate change on wildlife and what steps can be taken to protect their habitats is more important than ever.

Drones are offering scientists new ways to monitor animal behavior, breeding habits, and natural habitats. Not only do they give scientists a detailed insight into the conservation of species and habitats, drones can access areas too dangerous for humans. Documenting the migration path of a cliff-dwelling bird or recording the primate population of a dense rainforest can be easily logged through the use of a drone. Scientist are now seeing behavior in animals that would be impossible to record through conventional methods.

Whilst some nature lovers object to the use of drones within natural landscapes, the environmental benefit is undeniable. Drones have even been used in an effort to reduce illegal poaching. Research has shown that the number of poaching incidents have dramatically decreased,in some cases even stopped, when a drone has been flying overhead. Camera-equipped drones watch over the wildlife, notifying park rangers of poacher activity.

4. VR Tourism

Virtual reality enables us to realistically experience new environments without any distractions from the outside world. Whilst some people may argue a virtual experience could never live up to the real thing, copious amounts of irreversible damage are inflicted on some of the most stunning natural environments across the globe every year. Some areas are too dangerous or off-limits for tourists to visit, and VR could bring these landscapes to people, without the need for a plane ticket!

Whilst it’s highly unlikely VR experiences will replace real-life tourism, it is undeniable that humans have had a devastating effect on the planet. Mass tourism has initiated protests in popular destinations, like earlier this year in Barcelona, due to gentrification and rising property prices, however, the environmental damage it causes could have far more catastrophic consequence.

5. Going Digital

Thanks to smart devices, cloud computing and digital initiatives, businesses are beginning to reduce their carbon footprint. Paperless businesses could not only improve the security of your company but severely reduce your costs. In 2012 and 2016, the Government saved £3.6bn by making better use of technology. In this current digital climate, business who fail to embrace the wonders of technology may find it hinders success.

Many businesses are now expected to have both a presence physically and digitally. Digital platforms bring your business to customers at their convenience. Audiences are beginning to embrace digital services and often use digital platforms as their first interaction with your brand, therefore, it is essential to maintain an enjoyable digital experience.

To discover what emerging technologies can do for your business, get in touch with B60 today!